Previous Challenge Entry
Topic: Heroes (03/08/04)
TITLE: A Worthy Hero By Mary Elder-Criss 03/11/04 |
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By: Mary Elder-Criss
She kneels and bows at the altar, tears gently trickling down her face, a prayer of petition quietly whispered from her lips. She asks for forgiveness for the times she has failed, and prays for help to be a better person in the future. Shiny brown hair hiding her face, her small shoulders quiver as she thanks Jesus for all that she has, and all that He has done for her. I lay my hand lightly on her back, and gently rub circles between her shoulder blades as I join my voice with hers, asking the Lord to bless her and always keep her close to His side.
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Many people define heroes in different ways. People often even model their lives after others that they consider to be worthy of this status. In these days, heroes frequently are rewarded with this reputation, only to later prove themselves unworthy of it. To many younger children, a major sports star, movie star, or a popular musician might be considered a hero. However, their lifestyles seldom are ones that reflect any practices or habits that we would desire our children to model their lives after. My pick for a champion is a bit closer to home. She may not be well known, yet that does not make her any less worthy. My hero’s name is Erin. She is eight years old, with freckles across her button nose, a pixie haircut, and an impish grin.
What definitive qualities does Erin possess at such a tender age that would cause me to label her as my hero? Is she really such a special individual, or am I just a prejudiced mother blathering on about her youngest child? Perhaps I am a bit predisposed in her favor since I did give birth to her, but I am not one of those mothers who are blind to their children’s faults. Just ask them, if you don’t believe me. Erin has faults of course, just like everyone else in the human flesh, but her strengths overpower her imperfections greatly. The biggest character strength that she possesses is her tender and gentle nature. Her compassionate disposition often has me praying that I might one day grow up to be more like her.
Her life and her temperament are a daily reminder to me of what it is to be humble, forgiving, long suffering, and kind. She has earned the nickname of our family’s “Prayer Warrior,” and is faithful in it. Her tree is laden with good fruit, and she shares it abundantly. She is a Jesus mirror, reflecting His love to all who come into contact with her. She is my hero, and a worthy one, indeed.
Copyright 2004